A CARDIGAN optician is advising hay fever sufferers on the best ways to treat their symptoms ahead of Allergy Awareness Week (April 25-May 1).

Hay fever can strike at any time, depending on what triggers it, but is particularly common when grass pollen is released between May and July. In any year, allergies affect around 20 per cent of the UK population (12 million people), with school-aged children and teenagers particularly susceptible.

Hay fever can be debilitating – research has shown the condition can affect sleep and concentration levels.

Given the condition can cause itchy, red and watering eyes, among other symptoms, it is especially miserable for contact lens and glasses wearers.

“The arrival of summer and slightly warmer weather should be a time to celebrate, but streaming eyes and noses can take the shine off things,” said Heledd Hallett, director of Specsavers in Cardigan.

“Fortunately, there are steps we can take – young and old – to ward off the worst symptoms.

‘No one wants to stay indoors when the weather is nice but, if the pollen count is over 50, it’s worth limiting the time you spend outside – particularly in the early morning, evening and at night.

“Indoors, vacuuming regularly will help keep pollen at bay, as will air filters and dusting regularly using a damp cloth. If you must travel or be outdoors when pollen counts are high, then wear wraparound glasses or sunglasses and a full-brim hat to protect your eyes, and remember to shower when you return home to wash any pollen away.

‘Over-the-counter antihistamines can help mild symptoms, but you need to take them regularly and you should aim to start using preventative nasal sprays around two weeks before your symptoms kick in.

“If you find your symptoms are not responding to these, your GP may be able to prescribe something more effective. There’s no reason to suffer in silence this year.”